Turkish Airlines Threatens To Suspend Nigerian Flights After Union’s Picketing

Turkish Airlines on Wednesday said it may consider cancellation of its flights in Nigeria following picketing by aviation workers at the nation’s major international airports.

Members of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) on Tuesday staged protest actions at the international terminals of the airports in Lagos and Abuja, disrupting the airline’s operations and preventing normal passenger processing.

The protest by the aviation workers was said to be connected with an ongoing labour dispute between the airline and some of its Nigerian employees.

The union members picketed the airline’s offices and check-in counters at the international terminals, chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards while demanding the resolution of the issues in dispute.

The action caused delays and disruptions for passengers booked on the airline’s flights, with many travellers left stranded at the airports as airline officials struggled to manage the situation.

Reacting to the development, Turkish Airlines said it respects the right of workers and labour unions to express their views but described the protest action as regrettable, especially as discussions with union representatives were already ongoing.

According to the airline, dialogue with the union was underway to address the concerns raised by workers through established legal and institutional channels.

The airline maintained that its operations in Nigeria are conducted in full compliance with the country’s labour laws and the applicable regulatory framework governing the aviation sector.

It further urged all stakeholders involved in the dispute to pursue their concerns through lawful and constructive dialogue rather than actions capable of disrupting airline operations.

“The safety and security of our passengers, employees and operations remain our top priority.

“As demonstrated in the past, should operational conditions fail to meet the required safety standards, Turkish Airlines will take the necessary operational measures.

“We remain committed to continuing discussions with relevant parties to reach a responsible and constructive resolution, while reiterating our expectation that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure a secure and stable operating environment, otherwise, we would like to inform you that we will consider the cancellation option in our flight schedule,” the airline said in the statement.

While reiterating its commitment to continuing engagement with relevant parties to reach a responsible and constructive resolution, the airline stressed that it expects authorities and stakeholders to ensure a secure and stable operating environment for its operations.

The carrier said if such conditions cannot be guaranteed, it would consider the option of cancelling its flights to Nigeria.

Turkish Airlines currently operates regular international services connecting Nigeria to its global hub in Istanbul, providing passengers with access to numerous destinations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas.